Sunday, September 20, 2009

Wire Pumpkin Project

Since today is the first day of fall I thought I would turn my thoughts to creating something for my autumn displays. I think this project fits three party categories today so I'm linking to these great events:

I was shopping at Hobby Lobby on Saturday and came across this wire pumpkin.

It was very cute, came in two sizes and at 50% off very reasonably priced at $4.50 for the smaller pumpkin and $6.00 for the larger one. I was about to purchase one when my thrifty alter ego suggested to me that I could make a similar pumpkin for much less. So off to Lowes I went where I purchased this:

200 feet of 20 gauge wire for $6.97. And with 13 feet of that wire (for a cost of 45 cents), I created this:

These are the steps I took to make my wire pumpkins (don't let all the steps scare you...it really is quite easy to make)

1) Find a can in your pantry....you are going to wrap the wire several times around the can.

2) Measure the diameter of the can (mine was 8 inches) and decide how many "loops" your pumpkin will have (the Hobby Lobby pumpkin had 50 loops...I decided that 20 loops was enough for my pumpkins). Multiply the diameter of the can by the number of loops on your pumpkin to get a length of wire that you need to cut for the project.

3) Cut the appropriate length of wire off of your roll of wire. Straighten as best you can.

4) Starting at one end of your can, begin to tightly wind the wire around the can, continue wrapping until you use all your cut wire.

5) Take the coiled wire off of the can....it will kind of look like a slinky.

6) One one side of the loops, pull the loops together and, using a twisty tie (this will be a temporary hold), wire the loops together. With the inside wired together, the outside of the loops will fan out in a pumpkin-like shape.

7) Go outside and find a small branch for your pumpkin stem. Slide the branch in the twisty tied opening. I also made a small "curly cue" out of the wire to accent the stem. Now, using a piece of 16 gauge wire (approximately 8 inches long), tightly wrap the inside of your pumpkin loops and the branch. (I started the wrapping process, removed my temporary twisty tie, and then continued wrapping).

8) I then added a little glue for good measure and let that dry.

9) The wire I used was silver so I spray painted the pumpkin black. I painted the curly cue green. You could also add some leaves but I didn't have any....I'll add them later.

I had hoped to get pictures to illustrate the steps but time did not allow tonight. If there is interest I would be more than happy to post again with pictures (sometimes my written directions aren't the best).

The cost of my pumpkin was less than 50 cents. Cost will vary depending on the diameter of the can you use and the number of loops that you want your pumpkin to have.

My husband and son both liked this project so I think it was a winner!!

I wonder if a slinky would work?Of course they may be plastic, but sprayed back i wonder if you could tell?Think I'll check out the $ store tomorrow and see what they have.Otherwise, it's off to the hardware store, and follow your directions.

How clever -- I would have went and bought the Hobby Lobby one without thinking . . . I bought a wire "cage" at a favorite shop and we were talking at lunch yesterday about being able to make one -- you maay have inspired me!

Jane,That is sooo cute! You are so creative! Now you have enough wire to make a pumpkin patch full.Glad the garage sale is over, they are so much work and every time I Have one I say its the last time! Have a good day,(its rainy icky here)Michelle

Jane! How creative! I would have walked out of HobLob all full of myself for getting them 50% off!! I think I'll make a trip to Lowe's today! Thanks for the great idea!!! And thanks for the encouraging comments!

Hi Jane,Now that is using your "thrifty brain". I love that you had the courage to round up all the supplies and went in for the homemade version. I love your "can do" attitude, it inspires me.Great Job!

Oh my word-I LOVE THIS-gotta make some. I started thinking OHH what could I make for a Christmas ornament. I make several different ornaments every year, with the kids for our tree, so I am always trying to come up with something creative.

About Me

I'm Jane and I'm a junker. In my spare time you will find me shopping for treasures at local flea markets, thrift stores and antique malls or repurposing said treasures into new pieces that I use in my home or give as gifts to family and friends. Somehow the shopping part has overtaken the creating part but I typically have on hand what I need when inspiration hits. I enjoy sharing my projects on my blog and appreciate you stopping by for a visit.